Hope and Vision Ready for First Zoo Christmas

TOPEKA -- It is Hope and Vision’s first Christmas, and to celebrate this occasion, a “Baby’s First Christmas Tree” has been placed at the front entrance to the Topeka Zoo. The tree, sponsored by Vision Bank, is filled with “Visions of Enrichment” ideas for all of Hope and Visions animal friends at the zoo.

Visitors are encouraged to stop by the tree and consider donating an enrichment item listed on one of the many ornaments or making a monetary donation towards animal enrichment.

Enrichment is an integral part of the daily animal care at the Topeka Zoo. In the wild, animals spend much of their time hunting for food, warding off predators, defending their territories, and building homes. The animals at the Topeka Zoo are provided with the highest quality care. This means they are fed well balanced diets that include ample amounts of food, they receive regular medical exams, and they are free from predation. Often, that very quality of care can discourage the animals from exercising some of their natural behaviors and talents, since they're no longer necessary.

“We receive frequent inquiries from guests who wish to purchase a gift for their favorite animal here at the zoo”, states Brendan Wiley, Zoo Director. “Through the Visions of Enrichment Tree, visitors can seek out that special gift and help support the zoo’s enrichment program”.

Item requests including such things as peanut butter, perfume, jell-o, gift certificates, crackers, paint, fox urine, and more can be found on the tree. All donations can be brought to the Leopard Spot Gift Shop located at the zoo or mailed to the attention of Friends of the Topeka Zoo. A complete listing of enrichment items can be found on www.topekazoo.com. Thanks for your help this holiday season!

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